Q&A: Looking for a Radiant-Shaped Diamond for a Pave Setting Within a $13,000 Budget

Hello,

I came across your site while trying to gain some clarification on what to look for in terms of an SI1 radiant cut diamond in terms of what types of inclusions would be a red flag for durability or eye clean.

Most advice seems to be that SI1 would be ok for a radiant cut.

I am looking at the following:

various 2.01-2.03 radiant cuts with:
H Color
1.23-1.30 L/W ratio for a more rectangular appearance.
Cut grade based on table depth and table % to be excellent.
Most are priced slightly below or above $13000.

I’m looking to set it in a pave’ style ring.

Thanks for your assistance!

Let me provide more clarification on a few areas.

A 2.00 would also be fine as well. For some reason, I just came across more that were slightly higher. I would definitely be ok with an SI2 or SI1 provided it is eye clean, and this is where I need the most help when searching online as it is difficult for me to determine if it’s eye clean. Most of the images are magnified and while that is most appreciated seeing it from eye level is not often an option so I’m not sure how to determine if it’s an eye clean SI2 or SI1.

The second area that I need help in is determining the cut quality. In my research, I have seen varying arguments in the table depth and table% for radiants. Each a little different in what is considered an excellent cut vs a very good or good cut.

The ideal purchase for me will be around 2.0ct radiant diamond with a high-quality cut to make sure its brilliance and fire are maximized, H or G color and an eye clean SI2 or SI1. The diamond would also need to be more in line with the rectangular type of radiants then the square types. From my information, I believe that means I need a ratio of 1.25-1.3 or thereabouts.

I feel as if I am finding myself looking at higher quality then necessary while looking online based on the difficulty in determining if a diamond is eye clean and high enough on the cut quality.

Would I need to be concerned with either of the following:

1. the “good” rating on symmetry?

2. Would the medium blue fluorescence with a platinum pave band be of a concern that the stone would appear too blue/hazy or would this actually be a positive with the H color?

I wanted to let you know that I did purchase this stone and it’s stunning. Thank you so much for helping me find a great deal on exactly what I was looking for.

I will gladly complete the review! Thanks again.